invalid system disk

[billy77]

many months ago we installed windows live one care on our computer and after it was installed all i get on it now is it says, Invalid system disk, replace the disk, and then press any key. I tried putting in the XP disk that came with the computer but it still says the same thing. Please help. Thank you

[Neovo]

When putting in the Windows XP CD-Rom disk, you have to set the BIOS bootsequence to boot from the CD / DVD drive first.

Otherwise it will ommit the drive and keeps trying to boot from the harddrive.

At bootup, and as soon you see grey letters in a black screen, you have to press and hold either the DEL key (Most common), the F2 key or the F10 key.

One of those will bring you into the BIOS setup where you can change the boot order.

Neovo.

[billy77]

thanks I'll give it a try

[billy77]

ok I did that and was able to reinstall windows xp, now when the computer starts I have to press f1 to continue, then everything comes back up normally

[Neovo]

The F1 probably means that there is a setting in BIOS that needs to be resetted back to its previous value.

Otherwise, the CMOS cell (A CR2032) is about empty.

Check if the system keeps its date and time overnight when shutted down, and disconnected from AC power.
If Not, you have to replace that cell

Neovo.

[billy77]

it says press f1 to continue, DEL to enter SETUPr EZ flash utility, Ill try what you just said, I wasnt sure if any more info would help you. I really appreciate all your help

[Neovo]

We just have to check if it is not the Cmos Cell, which is located somewhere on the Mainboard.

If it is NOT, (The system keeps date and time perfectly over an entire nightspan while totally disconnected from AC Power) then you have to set it to factory default.

This is mostly a setting in CMOS itself, but can allso be done by a Jumper, or leaving the CMOS cell out and power disconnected for one hour or more.

Neovo.

[billy77]

I will give it a try thanks again